In this episode of the EpicEvents podcast, Muhammad Younas speaks with Ruud Janssen, co-creator of the Event Canvas framework, about how event design shapes attendee experiences. Ruud explains how the Event Canvas helps planners design impactful events by focusing on stakeholder needs, behavior changes, and prototyping solutions.

The discussion highlights the importance of diverse perspectives in the design process and the value of engaging attendees during events to shape future experiences. Ruud also shares real-world examples from his work with organizations like the International Olympic Committee, offering practical insights for event organizers looking to create more engaging and successful events.

Key Takeaways

Here are a few actionable takeaways Ruud and Younas discussed around event design and attendee experiences:

• Effective event design considers multiple stakeholders, not just attendees.
• By identifying and delighting those with high power and interest, organizers can drive meaningful behavior change and ensure event success.
• The Event Canvas framework provides a structured methodology for designing events by defining stakeholder needs, articulating design restrictions, and creating prototypes.
• Including a diverse range of thinkers in the event design process is crucial. A homogenous team may lead to repetitive ideas, while diverse insights foster creativity and more comprehensive solutions.
• Successful event designers create multiple prototypes and scenarios well in advance to be prepared for any unforeseen circumstances.
• Live feedback and real-time brainstorming sessions contribute to the evolution of event experiences.
• AI can streamline tasks like content capture and data analysis, but the core of event design remains rooted in human-to-human interaction.

In this podcast, Muhammad Younas and Rachel dive into the essential elements that make an event truly successful, from the initial planning stages to post-event engagement. Rachel shares her insights on how event organizers can attract the right audience, create impactful experiences, and leverage both traditional and modern marketing strategies to boost attendance and engagement. Together, they cover everything from effective promotion and building buzz to maximizing attendee satisfaction and ensuring long-term event success.

Key Takeaways

Here are a few actionable takeaways Rachel and Younas discussed around event marketing innovation and execution tips:

• Rachel’s Snowball platform emphasizes peer-to-peer influence, empowering attendees, speakers, and sponsors to promote events organically and effectively.
• Getting attendees to sign up early remains a persistent challenge, requiring creative approaches like showcasing content, leveraging speaker insights, and highlighting networking opportunities.
• For B2B events, private channels like email, Slack, and WhatsApp often outperform public platforms like LinkedIn for driving event registrations.
• Combining incentives (e.g., VIP experiences) with personalized outreach enhances participation and fosters organic event advocacy.
• Virtual events benefit from shorter marketing lead times but face higher no-show rates, necessitating tactics like time-sensitive content access to drive attendance.
• Loyal attendees can become ambassadors for future events, while tailored messaging and experiences are key to attracting and retaining first-timers.

Join vFairs CEO Muhammad Younas and Leanne Velky as they break down the essentials of a smooth attendee journey. 

Life’s complicated enough; signing up shouldn’t be. Registration forms should capture only essential information through short, multi-step sections with clear “opt-out” options. This approach reduces friction, keeps data clean, and improves the attendee experience. 

In this episode, Younas and Velky discuss simplifying registration and keeping attendees engaged from start to finish.

Key Takeaways

• Keep forms concise, with a clear purpose for each question.
• Finalize payment as the last step to reduce drop-off rates.
• Design forms with the user in mind, offering opt-out options for irrelevant questions.
• While useful for repetitive tasks, AI can’t replace human insight in strategic planning.
• Use reminders and social tools to keep attendees excited leading up to the event.

Tune in for strategies to reduce event registration drop-offs and increase engagement and conversions!

Join vFairs CEO Muhammad Younas and guest Adam Parry for an insightful discussion on the dynamic shifts in event marketing. 

With technology evolving at lightning speed, event organizers are discovering exciting new ways to connect with their audiences and design unforgettable experiences. Yet, as Artificial Intelligence becomes more commonplace, it’s essential to strike the right balance between using technology and nurturing genuine, human connections. 

In this episode, Younas and Parry explore actionable strategies to harness AI effectively, retain audience attention, and form genuine relationships in a tech-driven world. 

Key Takeaways

• Expand reach by moving traditional media and advertising efforts online, and recognize tech innovations to build engaged communities.
• Use AI to streamline event tasks while keeping human interaction central, ensuring intuitive, user-friendly event platforms.
• Implement tools and follow-up methods to help attendees remember key takeaways post-event.
• Encourage in-person networking for deeper connections that digital interactions can’t replace.
• With digital ad restrictions rising, consider events as key touchpoints to build brand loyalty.
• Blend learning with entertainment to create engaging events that keep audiences returning year after year.

Tune in for practical insights on blending technology and human connection to transform your event strategies!

In this podcast, Muhammad Younas and Miguel Neves explored how content creation can be a strategic asset for event organizers, driving year-round engagement and extending the life cycle of event experiences.

The podcast also discussed Skift Meeting’s approach to creating valuable content that resonates with audiences, from event sessions to industry reports. Additionally, it uncovered five non-obvious event trends for 2024/2025 that are shaping the future of event formats, attendee expectations, and sponsorship models, providing organizers with the tools they need to stay ahead of the curve.

Key Takeaways: 

Here are a few actionable takeaways Miguel and Younas discussed around event content strategy, latest trends, and Skift Meetings’ approach towards content: 

• Events can use content to engage attendees before, during, and long after the event, driving year-round engagement and brand visibility.
• AI can streamline content creation and personalize attendee experiences, but human oversight is key.
• Hybrid events work best when the focus is on simple, effective streaming rather than complex virtual experiences. 
• Sponsors should integrate into event content, offering value beyond logos and branding.
• LinkedIn is essential for reaching event professionals quickly and effectively with valuable insights.
• Audiences are increasingly consuming short, digestible content, like quick videos or summaries, especially on platforms like LinkedIn.
• Expect more focus on personalization and smarter use of event data to enhance attendee experiences.
• Event organizers should plan for late ticket sales as attendee behavior continues shifting towards last-minute decisions.

Technology’s evolving impact on event planning and community management is evident in today’s world. While technology offers new ways to connect, it can also overwhelm users. The potential of AI to curate relevant content and manage information overload is promising but still developing.

Liz Lathan, who appears on this episode as a guest, and vFairs CEO M. Younas both stress the importance of considering the community’s needs and preferences. They highlight the significance of selecting the most suitable tools for the specific audience.

Our guest further discussed the significance of engagement, which should be assessed through cognitive, behavioral, and emotional metrics to gauge and foster community involvement effectively.

Key Takeaways: 

Here are a few actionable takeaways Liz and Younas discussed around event planning and community building, and how event tech can supplement both.

• Event marketers should leverage personal experiences to create welcoming, personalized event experiences that resonate with your audience.
•  Design networking-focused events where attendees can share insights and solve problems, rather than relying on keynote and breakout sessions.
•  Try unique event formats like live telethons or interactive broadcasts to quickly build community and drive engagement.
• Host regular virtual gatherings and discussions on platforms your audience uses (e.g., Slack) to keep the community active year-round.
• Use AI and tech tools to streamline engagement, but prioritize face-to-face or high-touch interactions for meaningful connections.
•  Establish clear boundaries for work hours, especially around events, and ensure your team is supported with downtime and psychological safety.
•  Attend events in different industries to gather fresh ideas and approaches for your own event planning and engagement strategies.
• Build your community around a specific goal (product, practice, or purpose) and ensure there’s a relatable, visible leader to foster engagement.
• Apply the “Five C’s” (Care, Collaborate, Co-create, Converse, Connect) to keep your community involved and foster long-term loyalty.

In today’s dynamic landscape, the role of entertainment in events is more pivotal than ever. Events serve as canvases for creativity, platforms for engagement, and stages for leaving lasting impressions. Whether it’s a corporate gathering, a social celebration, or an unconventional conference, integrating entertainment can elevate the entire experience.

Our guest for this episode is Christian Henderson, the director of talent partnerships at G7 Entertainment Marketing. Since beginning his tenure at G7 in 2012, Christian has strategized, negotiated, and executed the appearances of worldwide recognizable talent in large-scale corporate and private events. 

In this episode, we will cover the following:

• Discuss the significance of integrating ‘entertainment’ or ‘talent’ into events.
• Explore the challenges and lessons learned in adapting to the “new normal” for events post-2020, focusing on how talent has adjusted their expectations and contractual arrangements.
• Share real-world case studies that demonstrate the successful integration of virtual talent opportunities for programs targeting both internal and external audiences.

Virtual events offer much more than just a space for casual interactions; they have become hubs of knowledge, support, and growth. Whether you’re a professional seeking to expand your network, an enthusiast looking to connect with like-minded individuals, or someone on a quest for unconventional mentorship, online communities hold a treasure trove of opportunities.

Our guest for this episode is Leanne Calderwood, one of the hospitality industry’s most preeminent LinkedIn experts. Leanne has emerged as one of Canada’s foremost voices in the meetings and events sector. Her journey to success in this field has been marked by her adept use of personal branding and LinkedIn expertise, allowing her to establish the invaluable “know, like, and trust” connection within her community. 

In this episode, we will cover the following:

• Unique strategies to foster trust within online groups, transcending the digital divide and nurturing authentic relationships.
• Methods to go beyond the screen and establish profound connections from online groups, transforming virtual interactions into real-life relationships.
• Tips on how cultivating a strong personal brand can help you find the right community, opening doors to unconventional opportunities in your career.

Behind every successful event, there’s a story of meticulous planning, creative thinking, and overcoming challenges. Event professionals, whether orchestrating corporate conferences or community gatherings, navigate a landscape filled with intricacies and unexpected hurdles. 

Our guest for this episode is Aaron Kaufman, President and CEO of Fifth Element Group, Aaron has set his own path in Toronto and international markets to lead a team in fostering long-term connections for annual growth through live and experiential events of high impact.

In this episode, we delve into various aspects of event organizing, addressing your questions on:

• Overrated trends and their questionable effectiveness in event planning.
• The lesser-discussed, unglamorous facets of the industry.
• Common pitfalls that event planners often encounter.
• The changing landscape due to evolving technology.
• Real-life challenges and the innovative solutions that led to positive outcomes.